Mm-Tent by Ocean (Daniel Coll, Mattia Gambardella, Pavel Hladik, Jeffrey Turko). Entitled 'Minimal Membrane Tent', the proposal was shortlisted to a group of 10 from a field of 100 entries from 19 countries.
The Mm-Tent project presents a new type of working space that is a spatial experience of modulating light and varied transparencies. Embodied in a lightweight perforated umbrella structure. Easily deployable, the Mm-Tent rests delicately in place supported on its stiletto like vertical elements into a sculpted base.
The minimal fabric patches combine together into a lattice like surface that sculpts the space into defined zones that can be occupied. This is then defined further in combination with a sculpted base of occupiable surfaces that can be used for sitting and resting.
The levels of transparency between spaces change as one moves around and through the Mm-Tent. Offering a multitude of privacy from view for the occupier. The latticed volume creates varied diffused light conditions, modulating light much like the canopy of a tree. Producing a gradient of light conditions for users that need minimal light for the use of computers and brighter light conditions for reading.
The structure of the Mm-Tent is an umbrella structure. Rods act as compression members that create the flexible skeletal system for the Mm-Tent. When unfolded it snaps into place with the fabric patches supporting the structure much like muscle in tension.
The project is sponsored by Buro Happold and exhibited in ABB Beijing 2008.
www.ocean-designresearch.net